AN END to the long running and emotive issue of who should re-erect gravestones and memorials in the town's cemeteries looks to be in sight.

Oldham Council's cabinet have agreed on a 10 point plan that will see members of the public consulted from an early stage.

Before the plan was unveiled Cllr Jeremy Sutcliffe said: "This is obviously an emotive subject and we have taken advice on how to move forward."

Cllr Bernard Judge, cabinet member for Community Services and Regeneration, said the council recognised cemeteries were a key asset to the community and should take pride of place on the landscape.

Among the measures the representative for Royton North proposed were that monumental masons should be required to re-erect any memorials erected prior to April 2003 that have been laid flat on safety grounds.

Others included:

Authorise an additional charge to be introduced to cover the costs involved in taking down and re-erecting a memorial to the proper standard, in order to enable additional interment.

A review of cemetery and crematorium charges to create an 'income stream' to cover the costs of implementing future safety inspections.

Request officers explore lottery funding which can be used in Greenacres and Chadderton cemeteries.

A phased restoration programme with at least £250,000 being spent this financial year. The money coming from the council budget.

Recommendation that the area committees be consulted on the detailed implementation of the restoration programme.

Lib Dem councillor John Anchor also gave his backing to the scheme.

Earlier in the meeting councillors heard from Bernard Doran, who had submitted a report to the Overview and Scrutiny Committee entitled 'A New Deal for Cemeteries'. He thanked the council for the progress they have made. He has agreed to be part of an inquiry team who will look into the issues raised.